Gilman Grad Bright Spot at Notre Dame

By: Zach Seidel

Former Gilman star quarterback Ambrose Wooden, who was once hotly recruited by many major college programs, recently finished his college career at Notre Dame.

Wooden is a finance major who enrolled in a graduate studies program after graduating in May 2007. As a freshman in 2003, Wooden did not play, but appeared in nine games as a sophomore making five tackles, two of which were solo, and 42 special teams appearances.

Wooden broke through during his junior year, starting in all 12 games and finishing third on the team in tackles with 74 -- 61 solo -- plus two interceptions. He also broke up five passes and recovered a fumble.

He had a big game in Notre Dame’s Fiesta Bowl loss to Ohio State, finishing with five solo tackles and seven tackles overall plus an interception.

Then, in 2006, Wooden played in nine games and made 21 tackles, broke up two passes, and had a fumble recovery. Wooden again came through in a bowl game, picking up four tackles, breaking up a pass and forcing a fumble against Louisiana State in the Sugar Bowl.

Wooden was approved for a fifth year of eligibility in 2007. Even though Notre Dame drew national attention with its struggles this past fall, Wooden fared well on defense. He played all 12 games, starting four, and finished with 27 tackles (19 solo). He also recovered a fumble.

Posted March 14, 2008